Silver-white in its pure form and very hard, molybdenum has the sixth highest melting point of any element, as well as the lowest heating expansion of any commercially used metal. Canada is the world’s fourth-largest producer of molybdenum (2006 figures), according to the International Molybdenum Association.

Uses:

• High-strength alloys and high-temperature steels to improve hardenability, strength, toughness and resistance to corrosion
• Lubricants, reagents, dyeing compounds, pigments, glazes and enamels, electroplating compounds, catalysts, fertilizers, flame retardants, paints and inks

Pricing: US$16.50-$17.50/lb  (oxide, as at February 23, 2010)

Additional Information:

• International Molybdenum Association (www.imoa.info)
• US Geological Survey, molybdenum home page (http://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/molybdenum/)
• Natural Resources – Commodity Reviews (http://www.nrcan-rncan.gc.ca/mms-smm/busi-indu/cmy-amc/com-eng.htm)